Our Story

WHERE IT FIRST BEGAN…

Derryck's journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu began where he trained under experienced guidance at The Stronghold. Over a year of dedicated training, Derryck's passion for the art deepened, leading him to establish what would become 1802 Jiu-Jitsu in Rancho Bernardo.

Together with his wife, Leslie, and Leslie's brother, Ric, Derryck nurtured the growing Jiu-Jitsu family. Starting from humble beginnings in a small classroom at the RB Rec Center, with mostly family members as students, their commitment and hard work transformed it into the thriving main facility you see today in the RB Courtyard. Professor Henry Iribe, who was one of the early coaches, has been instrumental in this growth and now leads as Head Coach.

After several years of growth and learning, Derryck, Leslie, and Ric embarked on a new chapter, giving rise to 1802 Jiu-Jitsu (pronounced: eighteen oh two). This represents not just a new name, but an evolution of their dedication to the art and the community they've built.

MEANING BEHIND THE NAME

The name 1802 has several meanings. The eighteenth letter of the alphabet is the letter “R” and the second is “B,” representing the community where we started. Also, it references to the Bible, Psalm 18:2. A humble shoutout of where we started our jiu-jitsu journey at The Stronghold Point Loma.

MISSION STATEMENT

1802 Jiu-Jitsu offers a welcoming and safe community for all to explore the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Guided by our tagline, “Strength within our roots,” we embrace the values of Discipline, Family, Perseverance, Integrity, and Respect. These roots provide the foundation for our members to grow, both as Jiu-Jitsu practitioners and as individuals, enabling them to meet any challenge with confidence.